Risk / Health Info for Djibouti

What shots do I need for Djibouti?

If you are travelling to Djibouti, immunizations are recommended. These include vaccines for the food- and water-borne illnesses hepatitis A and typhoid.

Some groups of travellers may wish to get a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a medical facility. Hep B is also contracted through intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is from invasive medical or cosmetic procedures, including tattooing and piercing.

Consider getting a meningococcal meningitis vaccine, before your trip to Djibouti. The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets. You can help prevent the spread of this sometimes-fatal infection by practising good sneezing etiquette.

Are there hospitals in Djibouti?

If you require hospital treatment, you will have to pay for it up front in cash. Travel insurance is essential when you go to Djibouti.

The emergency number in Djibouti is 35 09 62 or 35 27 12.

Health risks in Djibouti

About 2.5% of the adult population of Djibouti is living with HIV (the Canadian prevalence is 0.2%). You should take normal precautions to avoid infection.

Dengue fever in Djibouti

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Djibouti. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Djibouti

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Djibouti at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Djibouti

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Djibouti. This condition is also known as bilharzia.